Service plazas get makeover on Florida's Turnpike

Eight toll areas in central and south Florida will be updated

The Florida Turnpike's eight service plazas are getting a $162 million makeover. Turnpike spokesman Chad Huff says in published reports the service plazas are being renovated or replaced to meet the changing needs and expectations of the 30 million people who use them every year. Huff says the Turnpike's gas stations were built between 1959 and 1963. Restaurants were included in the late 80s. The plazas will also provide Wi-Fi access and enclosed areas for pets. Areas USA, a Miami-based company, is covering more than $100 million in costs in exchange for the right to operate the plazas' restaurants and retail stores. The rest of the bill will be paid for from turnpike tolls.

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